The UNBC Timberwolves women’s soccer program is bringing a local product back home, officially announcing the commitment of goalkeeper Alyson Raper for the 2020-2021 Canada West season.
“It’s a little nerve-wracking, because it’s a very competitive league,” said Raper. “I realize that I’ve worked hard and I deserve this, so I am very excited to compete at a new level.”
The 17-year-old moved to Vancouver in Grade 11 to join Fusion Football Club, seeking to elevate her game and bolster her opportunity to pursue the sport at a higher level. It was there, training under coach Danny Vaughan, that she realized that dream was a reality.
“When I went to Vancouver to start playing at a higher level, that’s when I decided I wanted to challenge myself,” she said. “I wanted to see how far I could go with soccer.”
Raper started playing soccer for the Prince George Youth Soccer Association when she was just three, and started playing goal as a 10-year-old. She is confident her work ethic will pave the way to a smooth transition to the university level.
“I am a hardworking player - I like to get feedback so I can improve my game and how I play,” Raper said. “I am also a very supportive teammate. Whenever I have a bad day, when I step on the field for practice or a game, all my worries go away. It makes my day.”
Timberwolves coach Neil Sedgwick knew of Raper’s abilities and welcomed her to a prospect camp in November. He immediately noticed her progression as a player and her willingness to absorb information and implement it.
“After having Alyson in our academy, and having her back at the Northern Sport Centre for camp, you could really notice her progress technically,” Sedgwick said. “Her time with Fusion FC has provided her with more experience in goal and she has come back with more balance in her performances. It will be great to have a Prince George product back home.”
That camp was crucial in Raper’s decision to commit to the Timberwolves. The five-foot-four ‘keeper was able to train with the current roster while familiarizing herself with the life of a Canada West student-athlete.
“I grew up watching this team, and watching these games,” she said. “At the camp in November, Neil and the girls were all so welcoming. I felt I could speak my mind, and I could ask questions without feeling hesitant.”
Raper is set to graduate from Point Grey Secondary School, with the intention of studying English at UNBC. On the pitch, the B.C. Summer Games alum is hoping to soak up the experience and grow as a U Sports player.
“I know for a fact it’s going to be a lot of harder, because it’s a higher level, but I don’t know exactly what to expect,” Raper said. “I am hoping to get a lot of feedback from the older goalkeepers and from Neil, so I can get a lot better for second year.”
